In a heartwarming story that has captured the nation's attention, a young blind woman, Joyce Imasuen Osaivbie, has graduated with a Second Class Upper degree in Law from the University of Benin (UNIBEN). This achievement marks the culmination of a 14-year promise made to her by former Edo State Governor and current Senator, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole.
A Life-Changing Encounter in 2011
The journey began on 4 December 2011 at the inaugural "Rights Above Charity" lecture in Benin City. The event was organized by the Network for the Advancement of People with Visible Disabilities (NAPVID) to mark the UN Day for Persons with Disabilities. A nine-year-old Joyce, then a pupil at the School for the Blind, delivered a flawless address using Braille. Her eloquence and confidence moved the audience, including Governor Oshiomhole, to tears.
Deeply impressed, Oshiomhole made a spontaneous and public pledge that day. "I listened to the young girl who read the speech earlier. I have never heard a child, even the non-physically challenged, read like she did. It broke my heart… I want to say publicly today that I want to adopt her as my child," he declared. Days later, he dispelled any skepticism by inviting Joyce, her family, and NAPVID officials to his official residence, solidifying his commitment to support her education and well-being.
Years of Unwavering Support and Milestones
From that moment, Oshiomhole became a constant pillar in Joyce's life. He ensured she had access to quality medical care, specialized learning materials, and the best schools. Her academic prowess shone through as she excelled at Queen's College in Lagos. In 2017, Oshiomhole celebrated her 15th birthday with a surprise party at her family's home in Benin City, arriving with a entourage that included top state lawmakers.
When Joyce gained admission to study Law at the University of Benin in 2019, Oshiomhole supported her dream fully, providing a laptop and ensuring her academic journey was as smooth as possible. She successfully completed her programme on 31 January 2025.
A Celebration of Triumph and Gratitude
On a recent Friday, Senator Oshiomhole visited the Imasuen family home on Upper Siluko Road in Benin City to celebrate Joyce's result. His visit drew a crowd of joyous residents. Beaming with pride, he addressed Joyce: "Rather than lamenting what you cannot change, you choose to demonstrate that with determination, you can still get to where you are going... The sky is your starting point in life." He recalled her bold choice to study Law, a difficult field, and praised her tenacity.
Joyce expressed profound gratitude: "He made sure that I was always comfortable... my years in UNIBEN were free of stress, except the stress from the school. I am proud to say that I made a 2.1." Her father, Michael Imasuen, a teacher, was emotional, thanking Oshiomhole for lifting the financial burden and allowing his daughter to soar.
Melody Omosah Esq., Executive Director of NAPVID, who facilitated the initial meeting, emphasized the sincerity of the relationship, noting it was devoid of political motives.
From a nine-year-old girl reading Braille to a governor, to a 23-year-old law graduate celebrated by her community, Joyce's story stands as a powerful symbol of how empathy, opportunity, and sheer determination can radically transform a life. For Oshiomhole, it is a living testament that barriers are meant to be broken.
